Health Insurance

I have recently been ill and made several doctor's visits. Of course, with the outrageous medical bills, I had to file claims with my health insurance. I was expecting a deductible and 20% of my bills to be my responsibility. Oh no, eight months later I am getting past due notices and collection agency letters in the mail. My insurance have set on their ass and not gotten anyone paid. I have had full-time medical insurance for 10 years and never really used it until now. I could have easily saved my money on insurance and paid 100% of my medical bills. So I ask you, is it worth throwing your money to the wolves only to have them bite you in the ass?